Hello there, soup lovers! Get ready to cozy up with a bowl of deliciousness because today, we’re diving into a truly comforting classic: Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup. This hearty, creamy, and incredibly easy-to-make soup combines the savory richness of Italian sausage, the tang of tomatoes, and the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of cheese tortellini. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family meal or something to warm up a chilly day, this soup is bound to become a favorite. Grab your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and let’s get started on this journey to comfort food bliss!
Introduction
Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup is a delicious fusion of flavors and textures, perfect for those who love Italian-inspired dishes with a touch of creamy comfort. This recipe brings together the robust flavors of Italian sausage, creamy tomato broth, and tender cheese tortellini, all slow-cooked to perfection. With its origins in Italian cuisine, tortellini soup is a popular choice for a heartwarming meal, especially on colder days. It’s a dish that’s both easy to make and deeply satisfying, providing a nutritious and flavorful bowl that the whole family can enjoy. So, if you’re a fan of creamy soups or hearty Italian flavors, this tortellini soup recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup
To make this Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed): adds a savory, meaty flavor to the soup.
- 1 (32 oz) container of chicken broth: brings a rich depth to the base of the soup.
- 1 (28 oz) can of petite diced tomatoes: provides texture and enhances the tomato flavor.
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans of tomato soup: creates a smooth, creamy tomato base.
- 2 (8 oz) containers of chive and onion cream cheese spread (softened): adds a creamy texture with a subtle chive and onion flavor.
- 1 (18 oz) package of refrigerated cheese tortellini (uncooked): the star of the dish, bringing delicious cheesy bites.
Optional Ingredient Substitutions:
- For a vegetarian version, use a meat substitute or omit the sausage and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Substitute the cream cheese spread with regular cream cheese and add a handful of chopped chives and onions if needed.
- Gluten-free tortellini can be used to make this recipe gluten-free.
How to Make Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Italian Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until it’s browned and no longer pink. Use a spatula to break up the sausage into small, bite-sized pieces as it cooks. This step brings out the sausage’s flavors and ensures it’s fully cooked before adding it to the slow cooker. Transfer the cooked sausage to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Assemble the Soup Base
Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato soup into the slow cooker along with the cooked sausage. Stir everything together to combine. This mixture will form the rich and flavorful base of your soup. Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW, cooking for 6 to 8 hours. This slow-cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Add the Cream Cheese and Tortellini
About 15-30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the softened chive and onion cream cheese and the uncooked cheese tortellini. Cover and switch the slow cooker to HIGH. Let it cook for an additional 15 to 30 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and fully cooked. Stir occasionally to ensure the cream cheese blends smoothly into the soup.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the tortellini is tender, give the soup a final stir and taste to adjust any seasonings. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired for an extra touch of flavor.
Helpful Tips for Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Italian sausage and high-quality tortellini will enhance the flavors in your soup.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add a bit more chicken broth when adding the cream cheese and tortellini.
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: The tortellini should be added near the end of the cooking time, as they can become mushy if cooked too long in the slow cooker.
Cooking Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup
- Brown the Sausage: Browning the sausage beforehand not only enhances its flavor but also prevents the soup from becoming greasy.
- Use a Slow Cooker with a Timer: This soup cooks for a long time, so using a slow cooker with a timer will help you manage the cooking time.
- Choose a High-Quality Chicken Broth: The broth you use will influence the flavor of the soup base, so go for a brand you enjoy.
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup
This soup is perfect on its own, but you can elevate the meal with a few side dishes. Here are some delicious ideas:
- Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy broth.
- Caesar Salad: A refreshing contrast to the warm and creamy soup.
- Parmesan Crisps or Croutons: Add a crunchy texture on top of your soup for extra flavor.
Pair with a glass of red wine like Chianti or a sparkling water with a hint of lemon for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
Nutritional Information
This hearty soup offers a balanced combination of protein, carbs, and fats, making it a satisfying meal. Tomatoes provide a healthy dose of antioxidants, while the cheese tortellini adds protein and calcium. Overall, it’s a comforting yet nutritious choice.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Vitamin C: 20% of Daily Value (DV)
- Calcium: 10% of DV
Storage and Leftovers for Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup
To store your Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup, allow it to cool and transfer it to airtight containers. The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions:
- Stovetop: Warm the soup on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, in 1-minute increments until warm.
For best results, add a splash of broth or milk while reheating to maintain the soup’s creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup
- Can I use frozen tortellini? Yes! Just add it straight from the freezer during the final 15-30 minutes of cooking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Can I make this soup vegetarian? Absolutely! Substitute the Italian sausage with a vegetarian sausage or add more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
- Can I use other types of pasta instead of tortellini? Tortellini is recommended for its cheesy filling, but you can substitute with other pasta varieties if needed. Just add a handful of shredded cheese to the soup for extra creaminess.
- How can I make the soup spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage for a kick of heat.
Related Recipes for Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup Lovers
Here are two related recipes from Optimal Recipes that you might also enjoy:
Both recipes offer hearty, Italian-inspired flavors that pair beautifully with this soup.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy this Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup as much as we do! It’s the perfect dish for a cozy dinner with family or a comforting meal on a chilly day. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your variations and feedback. There’s nothing like a bowl of homemade comfort food, so let us know how it turned out for you!
Enjoy your cooking and happy eating!
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Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup – Easy, Comforting Recipe
Description
Hello there, soup lovers! Get ready to cozy up with a bowl of deliciousness because today, we’re diving into a truly comforting classic: Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup. This hearty, creamy, and incredibly easy-to-make soup combines the savory richness of Italian sausage, the tang of tomatoes, and the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of cheese tortellini. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family meal or something to warm up a chilly day, this soup is bound to become a favorite. Grab your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and let’s get started on this journey to comfort food bliss!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed): adds a savory, meaty flavor to the soup.
- 1 (32 oz) container of chicken broth: brings a rich depth to the base of the soup.
- 1 (28 oz) can of petite diced tomatoes: provides texture and enhances the tomato flavor.
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans of tomato soup: creates a smooth, creamy tomato base.
- 2 (8 oz) containers of chive and onion cream cheese spread (softened): adds a creamy texture with a subtle chive and onion flavor.
- 1 (18 oz) package of refrigerated cheese tortellini (uncooked): the star of the dish, bringing delicious cheesy bites.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Italian Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until it’s browned and no longer pink. Use a spatula to break up the sausage into small, bite-sized pieces as it cooks. This step brings out the sausage’s flavors and ensures it’s fully cooked before adding it to the slow cooker. Transfer the cooked sausage to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Assemble the Soup Base
Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato soup into the slow cooker along with the cooked sausage. Stir everything together to combine. This mixture will form the rich and flavorful base of your soup. Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW, cooking for 6 to 8 hours. This slow-cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Add the Cream Cheese and Tortellini
About 15-30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the softened chive and onion cream cheese and the uncooked cheese tortellini. Cover and switch the slow cooker to HIGH. Let it cook for an additional 15 to 30 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and fully cooked. Stir occasionally to ensure the cream cheese blends smoothly into the soup.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the tortellini is tender, give the soup a final stir and taste to adjust any seasonings. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired for an extra touch of flavor.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Italian sausage and high-quality tortellini will enhance the flavors in your soup.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add a bit more chicken broth when adding the cream cheese and tortellini.
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: The tortellini should be added near the end of the cooking time, as they can become mushy if cooked too long in the slow cooker.
